A stethoscope forming a heart shape with a white medical coat in the background, symbolizing care and dedication of medical professionals

National Doctors’ Day is an annual observance dedicated to recognizing and honoring physicians for their invaluable contributions to individual lives and communities worldwide. It’s a day to celebrate the dedication, skill, and commitment of medical professionals who work tirelessly to keep us healthy.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: March 30th in the United States
  • Tagged as: Healthcare Professional Recognition Day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalDoctorsDay #DoctorsDay2024
  • When was it founded?: 1933
  • Who founded it?: Eudora Brown Almond

History of National Doctors’ Day

The celebration began in Winder, Georgia, when Eudora Brown Almond, wife of Dr. Charles B. Almond, decided to honor physicians for their service. She chose March 30th to commemorate the first use of general anesthesia in surgery by Dr. Crawford Long in 1842. The day became a national holiday in 1991 when President George H.W. Bush signed an official proclamation.

Timeline

  • 1842: First use of ether anesthesia by Dr. Crawford Long
  • 1933: First Doctors’ Day celebration in Winder, Georgia
  • 1958: Congress adopted resolution commemorating March 30th
  • 1991: Officially proclaimed as National Doctors’ Day

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2024March30Friday
2025March30Sunday
2026March30Monday
2027March30Tuesday

How It’s Observed

The day is traditionally celebrated with red carnations, which symbolize the qualities of love, charity, sacrifice, and bravery. Healthcare organizations often organize special events, lunches, and recognition ceremonies for their physicians.

Fun Facts About Doctors

  • The average doctor completes 40,000 hours of training
  • There are approximately 1,062,205 doctors in the United States
  • The average age for medical school graduation is 28
  • Toyota is the most popular car brand among American doctors
  • 65% of U.S. doctors are male

Quiz

  • Q: Who first used general anesthesia in surgery?
  • A: Dr. Crawford Long
  • Q: What flower symbolizes National Doctors’ Day?
  • A: Red Carnation
  • Q: In which year did it become a national holiday?
  • A: 1991

FAQs

Why March 30th?
It marks the first use of general anesthesia in surgery in 1842.

How is it celebrated?
Through recognition ceremonies, cards, red carnations, and special events at medical facilities.

Related Observances

  • National Nurses Day (May 6)
  • World Health Day (April 7)
  • National Pharmacist Day (January 12)
  • International Day of the Midwife (May 5)
  • Hospital Week (May 9-15)